“The lost soldier” wins fifth Anzac song contest in Tamworth

On Tuesday evening the Tamworth Songwriters Association (TSA) announced Peter Campbell and Brendon Walmsley as the winners of its fifth Anzac song contest at the annual National Country Music Songwriting Awards in Tamworth.

Assistant Director of Public Programs for the Australian War Memorial Ms Anne Bennie congratulated Mr Campbell and Mr Walmsley, both of Toowoomba, on their win. In winning the award, the pair received prize money of $500.

“It is inspiring to see songwriters moved to write about the Anzacs, honouring their sacrifice and sharing their stories through song,” said Ms Bennie. 

“The lost soldier” tells the story of Private James Stephen Farrell, who was killed at Fromelles in France in July 1916, and whose name is listed on the Roll of Honour at the Australian War Memorial.

“It is a story that will be familiar to so many Australians; one of loss and sacrifice, of love and friendship, of hope for the safe return of a loved one,” said Ms Bennie.

“Having featured among the finalists in previous years of the Anzac song contest, ‘The lost soldier’ makes for a deserving winner of this prize. The Australian War Memorial congratulates Peter and Brendon for their achievement.”

The runners-up in the category were Ben Mawdsley and Kate Appleyard with their song “My soldier”.

“The Memorial is pleased to continue its support of the TSA’s Anzac song contest, which provides Australians with a wonderful opportunity to honour the spirit of the men and women who wear, and who have worn, the uniforms of our three services,” said Ms Bennie.